A towering structure that is hard to miss, with 360 degree views out over Auckland city and it’s bays, Sky Tower is a must do when you pay a visit.

An attraction like this, although quite a typical tourist stop, is one I’m glad I didn’t miss. Auckland city is vast and spread out, so what better way to see it all? The Sky Tower is by far the tallest structure in the city, and is also the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand. Standing at 328 metres tall, and offering views as far as 80 kilometres, there’s plenty to do during your time at the top!

As you take the escalators down to the bottom entrance, you’re shown to the lifts that will take you on your ride up inside the tower. The lifts feature glass fronts, allowing you to look out as you leave the ground and the city spreads out before you, with a glass panel in the bottom where you can peer down and watch the floor disappear beneath your feet.

Our first stop was level 53, to share a few cocktails above the city at Peter Gordon’s rather chic establishment – The Sugar Club. Featuring an art deco style, with finishing touches of chrome fittings, stone table tops and gorgeous table settings, it’s the 360 degree views that make this place so special. With an impressive cocktail menu full of house specialties and the classics, the staff up here can also whip up one of your own personal favourites. Beyond the bar is the restaurant, which would make for an incredibly romantic dinner at sunset (I also hear the food is divine). If thrills are what you seek, this level is also where you can take a leap of faith and jump off the edge of the tower, falling 192 metres below. If the idea of falling is enough to make your stomach turn but you like to live life on the edge, you can opt for the Sky Walk around the pergola, the city below looking more like a city for ants. I dare you to look down!

Next it was back in the elevator and up to the Sky Deck where we could walk about and really take in the view. Located on level 60, this is the highest public observation level with seamless glass windows offering uninterrupted views of the city below and out over the water.

Despite our visit ending here, The Sky Tower has much more to offer if you have more time than we did. Enjoy a dining experience like no other at ‘Orbit’ – the dining room rotates 360 degrees every hour, providing a complete panoramic view of the city, the Hauraki Gulf and beyond. A few floors down on level 50, you’ll find the Sky Lounge. A casual café by day and relaxed cocktail space by night, it’s here you can enjoy a snack or refreshing drink before making your way back to ground level to browse through the gift shop.

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There are few things I am more passionate about in life than travel and food (and capturing memories and moments along the way). My blog wander-full.com is all about my exploration of the world, from my backyard and beyond, as well as some of my favourite tales and tips on traveling.